HI-50 Hit List

One of the highlights about the place that I work is that most are transplants to the island and have been here longer than I have. This means they are a fantastic resource to figure out what should be seen and explored and tips for the best way to do so.

Naturally, I started a list – my Hawaii-50 hit list as I lovingly call it. On this off shift one of the big ones was crossed off – Green sand beach and the southern-most point of the United States. One of only a few in the world! I also took a bus trip in to Cowboy country in Waimea and hit one of the local sights: the planetarium. The origami exhibit showcasing the dance of art and science blew me away.

Thursday, September 17^th: Line Dancing

Friday, Septemeber 18^th: Library Card, making my move official 

Saturday, September 19^th: Waimea Parade and Ho`olaule`a

Tuesday, September 22nd: South Point and Papakolea Green Sand Beach

Wednesday, September 23^rd: `Imiloa Astronomy Center

Hawaiian Festivals 101

After 6 days of training, a 2-day break, and then my first official 8-day shift, the time to soak in the local area and the Hawaiian culture finally began.

One of the first things I learned about the Hawaiian way of life is that celebrations are a way of life. And so, I got my first introduction at festival celebrating the birthday of the last Queen of Hawaii – Queen Lili`uokalani. This celebration was the perfect introduction as there was food, hula dancing, `ukulele performances, and the grand showcase of 50,000 orchid blossoms being dropped from a helicopter!

The rest of my off-shift included some local exploration at Rainbow Falls (a mile from my house) and a bus ride to the other side of the island. The beauty of the drive was well worth the time it took to get there, the best way to survey the island by far. Now I know that if the rain gets too be too much for me on the windward side, I can always take a ride over to the leeward side to soak in the sun.

Sat. September 5: Lili`uokalani Festival, coconut Island (Moku Ola)

Monday, September 7^th: Rainbow Falls

Tuesday September 8^th: Kona Side Bus Ride